Pope urges greater family understanding

Pope Francis has published new guidelines on family life that argue the Church should show more understanding of modern realities. 

The document, based on two Synods on the issue, was eagerly awaited by the world's one point three billion Roman Catholics. 

Entitled "On Love in the Family", it does not change Catholic doctrine  but opens the way for bishops in each country to interpret the doctrine to suit their own culture.

The document lists the Pope's views on family life, marriage, contraception and bringing up children. 

It is the culmination of three years' work by the Pope, who sent a questionnaire to families across the world asking them about their hopes and their fears.


SOURCE: BBC news